Minister Choi Hwi-young Visits Hospitalized Choi Bul-am: "Recover Soon and Buy Me Makgeolli"

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Choi Hwi-young has shared an update after visiting veteran actor Choi Bul-am, 85, who is currently hospitalized.

On June 13, Minister Choi posted a photo on his Instagram account showing himself with Choi Bul-am and Choi's wife, actor Kim Min-ja. In the post, he wrote that he had visited Choi Bul-am, whom he called the nation's beloved "national father," to pay his respects while the actor was in the hospital due to health difficulties. Choi said he felt greatly relieved because the actor welcomed him warmly with his distinctive "paha" laugh, and added that Kim Min-ja, who is always by Choi Bul-am's side, was also present.

Minister Choi said Choi Bul-am spoke at length and warmly encouraged him, covering topics from current affairs to art and religion. Choi Bul-am also suggested that they have a drink together after he is discharged from the hospital. Minister Choi said he immediately asked the actor to buy him makgeolli. When the minister then brought up "Eunseong," the tavern once run by Choi Bul-am's mother, the actor smiled brightly. "Eunseong" was known long ago as a hideout for poor artists.

Minister Choi also reflected on Choi Bul-am's long presence in Korean television, noting that the actor has remained close to the public for many years as Chief Park in the drama "Chief Inspector," as Chairman Kim in "Country Diaries," and, until recently, through "Koreans' Dining Table." He wrote that Choi Bul-am's strict yet warm image and deep voice are always remembered in people's hearts.

Choi closed by saying he sincerely wished for the full recovery of Choi Bul-am, who devoted his life to moving the public. The minister expressed hope that the actor would soon rise from his sickbed and return to the television screen.

Choi Bul-am underwent surgery last year for a herniated disc, and rumors about his health began to surface early this year.